Now fully restored, the Gaol is a complex of men’s cell blocks and some warders\' quarters, built in 1852 for Imperial convicts shipped to WA as artisans and skilled labourers.
Women’s cells, the Great Hall and more warders\' quarters were constructed of brick between 1872 and 1875. At this time the complex was also used as a colonial prison.
The Gaol was last used as a police lockup in the Great Depression of the 1930s. Extensive restoration from 1989 to 1996 returned the Gaol\'s condition to its original state. Cells, warders\' quarters and the Great Hall contain displays pertinent to the times and usage of these stark quarters.
Established in 1982, Wignalls Winery is located in the heart of the Great Southern winery region. It is only a five minute drive from the centre of Albany. The winery boasts manicured and sheltered gardens and a rustic stone cellar door.
Come and enjoy the tranquil rural setting while tasting a superb selection of wines. Wines produced include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Port, Shiraz, and late harvest Frontignon.
These wines have been described as 'exciting, exceedingly complex and with a richness seldom experienced'. The Vintage Blues Festival is held here annually, along with a few outdoor concerts throughout summer.
This is without doubt one of the most exciting food experiences in Western Australia and will be remembered as an attraction not to be missed. This unique jewel encompasses all aspects of Australian native food herbs and fruits, from the plantation to the table. As a visitor, you will be overwhelmed by the extensive product range created with these bushfoods. All your senses will be put to contribution whilst participating in a guided tour or enjoying an innovative modern cuisine featuring these amazing Australian food marvels. Activate your taste buds and learn about Australian natural food sensations at The Bushfood Factory and Cafe. They cater for your dietary needs, ask Chef Claudia. Form and create your own scrumptious meal gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian or vegan.
Kia Kia! (Welcome!) Experience the Albany region's rich culture - Aboriginal (Minang) and Wadjela (White) histories. Hear the Minang peoples Dreaming Stories of Kinjarling ('Place of Rain') in the Residency Building (once the colony's convict hiring depot). Learn about the region's natural histories and incredible biodiversity. Wander through the Bush Tucker, Frog and Lizard Gardens and stroll among the beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking the majestic Princess Royal Harbour and visit the Welcome Walls. The family-friendly Discovery Centre has lots of hands-on activities and themed workshops for children and young people. They offer school holiday programs, awarded early childhood programs and the unique Young Naturalists Club (see website for more details). The old Torbay One Teacher School enables a glimpse of the class room of yesteryear, whilst the old Mount Barker Co-op building houses travelling exhibitions and is the site of the 'Tuesday Curatorial' Public Program each school term. As well as a specialty book and gift shop, the Eclipse building houses travelling exhibitions, the stunning Eclipse Island optic, as well as artefacts from local lighthouses that once served the community. The friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist you to make the most of your visit.
Located in the South West of Western Australia, a region of natural beauty and rich pioneer history, Mount Romance - The Sandalwood Factory is an essential Albany experience. Only 15 kilometres north of the centre of Albany, this award winning tourist attraction offers a unique variety of activities. Free tours take you on a journey to learn about the branch to bottle processing of Sandalwood, one of Western Australia's oldest industries. Try their famous relaxation session, 'The Cone, The Gong and The Bowl' for an hour of relaxation that you'll never forget. Treat your body, mind and soul in the Tribal Dreaming Relaxation Centre. Indulge your senses in their world class showroom featuring their wide range of Sandalwood beauty and lifestyle products made on-site. The Sandalwood Café offers locally roasted coffee, homemade cakes, meals, a kids play area and much more. Mount Romance is the world's largest supplier of natural sandalwood oil and with such a wide range of facilities you'll find something for all of the family.
Emu Point in Albany is the perfect place for families to go swimming and picnicking. It's an ideal spot for children thanks to clear, calm and shallow water, as well as grassy lawn and trees. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Emu Point is also popular for fishing and boating. When the wind is up wind surfers skim along the shallows at a fast pace. Emu Point is a long promontory which juts out into the ocean near Oyster Harbour, just a few minutes from Albany. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum in Albany is Australia's first federal fortress and has a range of attractions to keep you and your family entertained for hours. The stunning panoramic views of King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour are a highlight from this historically significant vantage point. Explore the impressive restored 1893 fortress on foot. Discover how the soldiers kept the enemy out of the port and the types of artillery used. Visit the commanding officers house for breathtaking views across the bays and all the way up to the Porongurup Ranges. Be amazed by the anti-submarine weapon system and the torpedoes used by Australian submarines. Visit the kitchen site, quarter masters, officer's residence and married quarters to imagine how the soldiers would have lived. The history buff will be in heaven with the impressive museums on offer at the fortress, including HMAS Perth Interpretive Centre, Australian Light Horses Museum and the Australian War Memorial Gallery. The Military Institute Tea Rooms will provide a welcomed bite to eat and an opportunity to absorb all that you have seen. Situated four and a half hours drive south of Perth, the fortress is a well worth a visit.
Mount Clarence provides spectacular views out across the town of Albany and the surrounding bays. Walk along the heritage trail which starts at the memorial and winds around the edges of Mount Clarence. Appreciate the panoramic views of Princess Royal Harbour, King George Sound and Middleton Bay. Make sure you keep a look out for signs of humpback whales and dolphins that visit these waters. Climb the mountain to see the Desert Corps Memorial, a tribute to the soldiers that fought at Gallipoli in World War One. It stands near the peak of Mount Clarence as a tribute to the soldiers whose last view of Australia would have been of Mount Clarence. Situated in Albany, four and a half hours drive south of Perth, Mount Clarence offers views of the region unsurpassed by any other look out. Albany is the gateway to the southern regions natural highlights including the Stirling Ranges and neighbouring Porongurup Ranges.
The sun sets over the gently flowing Kalgan River, red and orange hues contrast with green vines and rolling hills complete the picturesque majesty that is Montgomery's Hill - home of premium wines. Producing wine to tingle the palate and rush the senses. Enjoy the tastes combined with stunning views from the cellar. Montgomery's Hill Vineyard is situated on the South Coast Highway 15 kilometres east of Albany. It is bordered by the Kalgan River, and has north facing slopes ideal for premium grape production. Montgomery's Hill is situated on the edge of a plateau, on gently inclined slopes that run down to the Kalgan River. The base rocks are augen gneiss covered with rich red brown loams overlying sandy clay loams interspersed with ironstone, a soil profile considered ideal for viticulture.
The foundation stone of the Albany Courthouse was laid 29 December 1896. The Court House is a unique example of the work of that period, exhibiting masonry at its best. The two arched entrances and doorways are a lasting memorial to Mr Trott, who was responsible for their creation. The building continues to by the centre of justice within the Rainbow Coast area.
The Old Farm Strawberry Hill was once the home of the first Government resident in Western Australia. Wander through the beautifully furnished 1836 historic cottage to gain a real insight into the way of life in early colonial times. The cottage was one of the earliest buildings in the state and site of the first cultivated farm. A highlight to your visit is a walk through the property's stunning gardens, which contain some of the original fruit trees. Once you have worked up an appetite be sure to visit the restaurant for a well deserved Devonshire tea or light lunch. If time permits take a short drive up to the top of Mount Clarence for a spectacular view across Albany and the surrounding waters. Just a short distance from Albany and four and a half hours drive south from Perth, the Old Farm on Strawberry Hill provides a wonderful trip back in time to the state's early settlement
You'll find unspoilt coastal scenery and a beautiful beach perfect for swimming at Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve near Albany. The reserve is famous for its small colony of rare and endangered noisy scrub birds. These birds were believed to have been extinct until they were rediscovered at Two Peoples Bay in the 1960s. You can learn more about the birds and the program in place to protect them at the Interpretive Centre. Take a stroll along the clean white sand of Little Beach and enjoy a scenic view over rolling hills and small granite outcrops. There are some excellent bushwalking tracks including the Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail which is a one hour hike over the headland and along the beach. Barbecue and toilet facilities are available near the car park. Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve is about half an hour drive from Albany. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
Discovery Bay's Walk on the Wild Side is an Australian Native Fauna Wildlife Park which recently opened adjacent to Albany's Whale World, showcasing over 200 animals across 30 different species of vulnerable, rare and endangered Australian native fauna. Animals at the fauna park includes Koalas, Spotted Tail Quolls, Eastern Quolls, Bettongs, Quokkas, Potoroos, Wombats, Grey-headed Flying Fox, Reptiles, Kangaroos, Wallabies and many more. The Fauna Park is available for self-guided day viewing, or why not take a Walk on the Wild Side Nocturnal Tour, where the fauna comes alive and is extremely active at night. Walk on the Wild Side Nocturnal Tour is an interactive, captivating and educational experience.
The Salmon Holes is named after the salmon that seek shelter in the calmer waters close to the beach. The beach has strong currents and surges and is a good surfing beach with rock fishing also a popular past time. There is a good walking trail nearby called Bald Head Walking Trail.
One of Western Australia's most spectacular harbours, King George Sound protects the historic city of Albany. This large bay with sandy beaches, cliffs and granite outcrops offers excellent whale watching and diving. Between July and October southern right and humpback whales are often spotted. Take a whale watching cruise to get up close to these giants of the ocean, and you might also see dolphins and seals. King George Sound is a popular dive location. There are several interesting shipwrecks to explore including the former Australian navy warship HMAS Perth. The 133 metre long former guided missile destroyer was scuttled and now sits on the bottom of King George Sound, creating one of the state's premier artificial reefs. Dive tours operate to the site or you can dive from a private boat with a permit. The fishing is top rate in King George Sound. Sign up for a fishing charter and you might catch salmon, herring, King George whiting, pilchard, leatherjacket, tuna, snapper and shark. King George Sound stretches between Flinders Peninsula and Bald Head and harbours a number of small islands including Michaelmas, Breaksea, Seal, and Mistaken Island. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth.
For the diving enthusiast a trip to King George Sound to explore the HMAS Perth is a must. Laid to rest off the coast of Albany in 2001, the shipwreck is already home to many species of fish and marine life. Recreational divers can follow the interpretive trail around the 133 metre long artificial dive reef to discover more about the ship's historic past. See where the ship came under fire during the Vietnam War with remnant shellfire still visible. Plaques have been placed near habitats of plant and marine life so you can learn about the fascinating eco-system that has developed since the ship's sinking. Divers will be provided with a map of the wreck and a suggested path to follow. However, it is up to you how you choose to investigate the HMAS Perth. Swimmers and snorkelers are also able to explore the wreck from the surface. King George Sound is often visited by the Humpback whales during their migration, so keep an eye out while diving, or snorkelling, for these fascinating mammals. King George Sound is off the coast of Albany, four and a half hours south of Perth.
Whalers Beach near Albany is the perfect vantage point to keep a look out for passing Humpback and Southern Right whales. Whalers Beach is also well known for the HMAS Perth dive site, which is located not far off the beach. The dive site features an interpretive dive trail around the 133 metre long artificial dive reef, giving divers the opportunity to discover the ship's past. Snorkelers are also able to explore the area and check out the unusual sight of the ruins of the Old Norwegian whaling station closer in to the shore. The abundant marine life taking shelter in the ruins makes it well worth a look. Whale watchers will be impressed with the opportunity to sit on a sheltered beach and enjoy a picnic whilst keeping a watch out for the whales swimming gracefully through the waters of the King George Sound. Make use of the barbecue facilities and shaded grassed area, or if it is a warm day, enjoy a swim in the ocean. Whalers Beach is a twenty minute drive from Albany and four and a half hours drive south of Perth.
Kalgan River in Albany is a popular place for boat cruises, fishing and bird watching. The river is 140 kilometres long and passes through steep hillsides of lush forest and rolling farmland before reaching Oyster Harbour. Throw in a fishing line and you might catch black bream, skipper, herring and whiting. Boat cruises regularly explore the Kalgan River and its tranquil waterways are also popular for water skiing and canoeing. Picturesque walk trails along the banks of the river offer some great bird watching opportunities. Bird species you might see include ducks, cormorants, thornbills, splendid and red-capped fairy wren, grey currawong and the western yellow robin. Albany is about a four and a half hour drive south of Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
The Albany Town Hall is one of Western Australia's oldest and grandest historic buildings. Converted into a charming 310 seat regional theatre in 1983, it hosts a number of performances throughout the year. Located in the main street of Albany, four and a half hours south east of Perth, the theatre is renowned as the best venue of its type in Western Australia. Be sure to check out the upcoming performances before arriving in Albany. The theatre offers an extremely enjoyable experience thanks to the comfortable plush velvet seating, state of the art sound and the closeness to the stage. Watch out for the theatre's resident ghost! The coastal town of Albany offers a great selection of attractions for all tastes. Catch a glimpse of the humpback whales passing by on their migration south or visit the Brig Amity replica ship. If you have time, take a drive to the Stirling Ranges and climb Bluff Knoll or join one of the numerous walking trails in and around Albany including the Bibbulmun Track which travels 900 kilometres north to Kalamunda in the Perth foothills.
Go fishing and bird watching at King River in Albany. This scenic river flows into Oyster Harbour at its northern end. Special reserves by the river offer the best chance to see native birds including red-capped parrots, western rosellas, scarlet robins, as well as splendid and red-winged fairy wrens. King River is a popular place to go swimming and canoeing. Throw in a fishing line and you're likely to catch black bream, herring or skippy. King River stretches over 27 kilometres and is joined by the large tributary of Mill Brook. The river flows past picturesque scenery including rocky outcrops, high sandy banks and farmland fringed by paperbark trees. Small boats can be launched into the river at the upper and lower bridges. Albany is about a four and a half hour drive south of Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
See how the south coast town of Albany is doing its part to help the environment at Albany Wind Farm. The farm consists of 12 giant wind turbines, each at a height of 100 metres from the base to the tip of the blades. The turbines generate around 75 per cent of clean, green electricity for Albany. They've also become a popular tourism attraction - standing high on the coast they make a fascinating landmark. Take a drive to Albany Wind Farm for a closer look. You'll feel dwarfed by the massive size of the turbines. You'll also be rewarded with sweeping views across Torbay to West Cape Howe National Park and the city of Albany to the east. Albany Wind Farm is a short drive from Albany. You can drive to Albany from Perth in around four and a half hours or fly there in just over an hour.
Sandpatch, near Albany is considered one of the best locations along the Southwest coast to see the magnificent Humpback and Southern Right whales. See these gentle giants of the sea glide effortlessly through the Southern Ocean on their migratory journey. Sandpatch is accessible by road, or the more adventurous can enjoy a fifteen kilometre hike through bushland along the Bibbulmun Track. Walk along the boardwalk to one of the well placed lookouts for panoramic views of the spectacular coastline. Hikers visiting Sandpatch as part of their journey along the Bibbulmun track will find the Hidden Valley shelter and campsite just an hour further along the track. For the fishing enthusiast the beach and rock fishing at Sandpatch is superb. Herring, salmon, mulloway and shark are known to frequent the waters along this stretch of the coastline. Just a 20 minute drive from Albany, Sandpatch is a four and a half hour drive from Perth.
When in Albany, make sure you visit the lovely Goode Beach. Nestled in the King George Sound it is surrounded by numerous islands and enjoys views out to Mount Manypeaks. Goode Beach has several popular walk trails to explore the surrounding coastline. Enjoy the views of Princess Royal Harbour and the historic town of Albany from the lookouts near the beach. The stunning southern coast line provides opportunities to see the sunrise over the ocean, which is rare in Western Australia. With its sheltered location, calm inviting waters and pristine soft white sandy beach it is a great spot for a day in the sun. Build sand castles on the beach with the children, or for the more energetic take advantage of the great conditions for windsurfing out on the water. Just a short drive from the historic Albany Township, Goode Beach is a four and a half hour drive south of Perth.
The Desert Corps Memorial near the top of Mount Clarence is an impressive war memorial commemorating those who fought at Gallipoli during World War One. Pose for a photo in front of the horsemen and their horses and read about the colourful history of the memorial and understand the significance behind its position at Mount Clarence. Look out for the bullet marks on the stonework which were attained during the Suez Riots of 1956. Situated near the summit of Mount Clarence, the site provides spectacular panoramic views across Princess Royal Harbour, King George Sound and Middleton Bay. The harbour is said to be one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. If you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the humpback whales on their migration to warmer waters. Mount Clarence is located in Albany, four and a half hours drive south of Perth. Stay for at least a few days and explore Albany and the stunning Great Southern region.
Set in a great location amongst some of Albany's best beaches, rivers and national parks, the Old Marron Farm offers fine south-west dining and activities for the whole family. Nippers Cafe gives you the opportunity to sample farm fresh marron, yabbies and trout, home-made cakes and great coffee. All food tastes are catered for, including kids parties and sundowners. Take a walk and say hello to and feed the friendly animals, wander through the huge flight aviary and hand-feed native and exotic birds. Looking for some real excitement? Take a Segway Adventure Tour. After some training, you can glide through the bush track, open fields and then down to the quarry to test out your new skills. Please visit the website for more information on these tours.
Jimmy Newells Harbour is a beautiful natural harbour close to Torndirrup National Park. This small inlet provides a protected calm body of water which is ideal for swimming and paddling, as its namesake discovered when caught in a storm. It is also a wonderful spot to try out beach fishing. The serenity of the harbour provides a lovely spot to relax and soak up the views and ambience. Pack a picnic and enjoy watching the comings and goings. Mother Nature has blessed this region with Torndirrup National Park on the doorstep. If you have time spend a few hours exploring the famous natural wonders of the park including the Natural Bridge, The Gap and the Blowholes. Jimmy Newells Harbour is a glorious section of coastline just five hours drive south east of Perth close to Albany.
The massive power of the Southern Ocean has created the spectacular rock formations of The Gap and Natural Bridge near Albany in the Torndirrup National Park. See the waves rush in and out with tremendous ferocity, and watch the waves surge along the sheer cliff drop. Nearby, a crack-line in the granite called the Blowholes noisily shoots air and spray high into the air. From The Gap and Natural Bridge there are excellent views of the windswept rugged coastline. See massive granite outcrops, sheer cliffs and steep sandy slopes and dunes. Keep an eye out for whales which are often seen from the cliffs, especially during winter. There are barbecue facilities nearby including tables and seating. The Gap and Natural Bridge is an easy 300 metre walk from the car park, while the return walk to the Blowholes takes about 40 minutes. The area is a 15 minute drive from Albany across Princess Royal Harbour. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
At the Albany Farmers Market, a car park in the heart of Albany is miraculously transformed every Saturday into a busy thriving market place - local producers bring their fresh, seasonal product and sell direct to locals and visitors. The quality and range of product every weeks is enormous - not only every imaginable type of fruit and vegetables, but also organic beef and lamb, venison, kangaroo, capretto, free range chicken, fish, seafood, honey, bread, yoghurt, cheese, milk, cream, ice-cream, oils, jams, preserves and fresh flowers and much more. The growers themselves sell their produce and delight in passing on the provenance of their product, together with helpful tips and recipes. Many locals now rely on the markets for their major weekly shop because of the comprehensive range and sustained quality of produce, enjoying the wonderful interaction with the producers, whilst at the same time enjoying catching up with old friends. Visitors enjoy an opportunity see, sample and buy produce that is truly local.
Albany Old Gaol Museum offers a fascinating look back to the era of convicts in the mid 1800s. Wander through the cell blocks reading the plaques about the colourful history of the gaol and gain an understanding of the difficulties experienced by the early settlers. Pay attention to the timber lined cells which were used to house Aboriginal prisoners in the 1870s. They contain various carvings which are said to be Australia's oldest Aboriginal cell art. For the courageous, book yourself onto the night tour and keep an eye out for a ghost or two, who are said to haunt the gaol. The Albany Old Gaol Museum recently underwent an extensive restoration to return the buildings to their original appearance. It is now home to artefacts from the original settlers of Albany and the regions Aboriginal people, as well as relics from the first and second World Wars. The museum is located in Albany, a four and a half hour drive south of Perth. The historic coastal town offers a multitude of attractions, historical sites and spectacular coastline to explore.
Visit the Replica of the Brig Amity for a fascinating insight into the journey the early settlers took from Sydney to establish their new home in Albany. A perfect photo opportunity waits at this historic replica ship, with the scenic Princess Royal Harbour as a backdrop. Step aboard the full scale ship and try to imagine just how small the ship would be with more than 50 other people onboard for six weeks. Make sure to book in advance for a fascinating guided tour of the brig. While on the boat be sure to keep an eye out for the humpback whales that are often spotted in the surrounding harbour on their migration to warmer waters. Situated four and a half hours drive south of Perth; Albany is home for the replica of the Brig Amity. While in the town there are a myriad of attractions to visit, including the beautiful old Albany Town Hall, the stunning views across the city from the top of Mount Clarence and the tranquil King George's Sound.
Built prior to 1832, the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum stands on the original Lot Two, of the first survey of the Albany Town site and is shown on a map dated 1832. Now a museum, the cottage is one of the few examples of architecture of the military regime, two years prior to the establishment of the Swan River colony. One of the oldest buildings remaining in Albany, a section of the wattle and daub construction is exposed in one of the rooms and oak shingles are still visible under the corrugated iron roof. Over 2,000 items are on display, including furniture, glassware, china, clothing, utensils and photos from the Albany district.
There's plenty of adventure on offer at West Cape Howe National Park near Albany. Go rock-climbing up rugged granite cliffs or hang gliding at Shelley Beach. During summer, easterly winds create good steady flying conditions. Take-off for hang gliders is from the lookout car park. There are also white sandy beaches offering idyllic swimming and fishing. Throw in a line from the beach and you could snare a catch of Australian salmon, mulloway, whiting and herring. Scenic bushwalking trails along the coast lead you through virgin bush and offer spectacular views. Some of the best and remote walk trails are in the Torbay area - most are four or five hour return treks. Good sturdy footwear is recommended when hiking through this rugged wilderness area. West Cape Howe National Park is about half an hour's drive west of Albany. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
Named Dog Rock, this huge granite outcrop near the town centre of Albany has an unmistakable likeness to the head of a bloodhound sniffing the air. Dog Rock is a must-do stop on any trip to Albany and is a popular place for that great holiday photograph. There's even a dog collar painted around this iconic Albany tourism attraction. Dock Rock is located on Middleton Beach Road, and a two minute walk from the town centre. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in an hour and a half.
The multi-use pathway from Ellen Cove to Albany Port is one of the best ways to see the famously beautiful coastline of the historic town of Albany in the Great Southern region. This moderate six kilometre return Top Trail passes through Middleton Beach and is great for whale watching. A mixture of bitumen path and wooden boardwalk, the path clings to the side of the hill and sweeps around with spectacular views of the bays. Commencing at the Ellen Cove trailhead, head up the boardwalk, keeping an eye out for the southern right or rare blue whales during whale season; a far cry from the days of whaling. There are lookouts, memorials to past leaders and explorers, and interpretive signage along the uphills and descents. As you gaze out to sea imagine the Australian troops heading from here to go and fight in Gallipoli. Near the port there are historic buildings including the lighthouse and bunkers. Once at the Albany Port negotiate some of the roads to head into town, or return the way you came.
One of Albany's most stunning seascapes, Middleton Beach is popular for its safe swimming, windsurfing and picnicking. Five kilometres of pristine white sand means there's plenty of space to find your own stretch of beach. Across the horizon are two picture-perfect granite islands, Michaelmas and Breaksea. Fishing is popular from the jetty and it's also a great place to watch the sunset into the ocean. Middleton Beach has picnic and barbecue facilities, as well as playground equipment. Take the scenic route to Middleton Beach along Marine Drive from Albany. Albany is a four and a half hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in just over an hour.
The Luke Pen Walk trail, located 20 kilometres from Albany in Western Australia's Great Southern region, is a beautiful meandering walk trail, closely following the Kalgan River. It offers a lovely mix of vegetation from large marri trees and conifers to farming pastures. Gorgeous views are present all the way along the trail. This easy, well-formed nine kilometre Top Trail takes approximately four hours to complete and commences at a well marked trail head. After a short distance you arrive at a wonderful shelter shaped like a flying kookaburra. From here, the return walk provides constantly changing views of the river, along with a mixture of vineyards, green pastures with grazing cattle and eucalypt bushland. Ideally, the time to complete this trail is on a sunny day when the countryside is green from winter and spring rains. During summer there are various places where the trail gently descends to river level so a cooling dip is possible. A great family walk, ideal for strolling (although some sections have a slight incline) and for a picnic lunch. Remember to keep an eye on children as the trail closely follows the river.
The Torndirrup National Park is home to a range of spectacular natural wonders, and is the most visited national park in Western Australia. The drive through Torndirrup is stunning and leads down to the rugged southern coastline. Take a short walk to the famous Gap and Natural Bridge. Both have been formed over hundreds of years by the ocean eroding a large gap in one rock face and a natural arch in another. A twenty minute walk will lead you to the blowholes, a split in the rock where the waves force air out the top. If you can time your visit on a rough day you will hear an impressive roar resulting from the massive force of the water. Watch out for the spray that usually follows! For the walking enthusiast, take one of the easily accessible bush walks through the park to see a plethora of stunning wildflowers in season. Alternatively for the more adventurous, take the medium grade coastal walk to Bald Head, the landmark that once guided explorers into King George Sound. Torndirrup National Park is a fifteen minute drive from Albany, which is a four and a half hour drive southeast of Perth.
St Johns Church of England was the first church consecrated in Western Australia. The consecration was performed by Bishop Short of Adelaide in 1848. In the aisle of the church are 22 centimetre thick blocks which were made in England. The church is surrounded by well kept lawns and gardens and holds regular services.
Princess Royal Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. Jump onboard one of the local cruises to explore the huge stretch of waters in this picturesque harbour. Keep an eye out for the humpback whales in the harbour and neighbouring King George Sound. If you have a boat, or choose to hire one, the harbour has a single lane boat ramp. There are an abundance of different species of fish for the fishing enthusiast. The calm clear waters provide a safe haven for swimming or if you prefer to explore on dry land there is an excellent cycle path along the waterfront. For the perfect photo opportunity and panoramic views of the harbour, make sure you visit the Princess Royal Fortress or climb to the summit of Mount Clarence. Princess Royal Harbour is in Albany, four and a half hours drive south east of Perth. As the state's oldest town and surrounded by spectacular views, there is no shortage of attractions to keep you captivated.
Oyster Harbour is a permanently open estuary covering an area of 15.6 square kilometres. It is used to shelter a fishing fleet carrying out commercial fishing and farming oysters and mussels. The harbour is used by thousands of waterbirds for feeding. Mainly boat fishing takes place in Oyster Harbour but there is some jetty fishing. Likely catches include herring, skippy, whiting, squid, flathead and rock species. Good swimming beaches and picnic areas make Oyster Harbour a great place for a family outing. Experience one of the boat cruises that operate in the harbour and venture up the Kalgan River to explore the natural scenery.